Do you find yourself looking in the mirror for signs of hair loss? Have you been dismayed to see your hair receding at the temples and forehead? Is the spot on your crown widening by the year? Have your self-confidence and sex appeal been impacted?
If this sounds familiar, and the situation is causing you distress, you have come to the right place!
Dr. Harris is a leading authority and internationally renowned expert on hair restoration for men, and we can help. Schedule a consultation today.
What are the causes of hair loss in men?
Hair loss in men can be attributed to various factors, most of which are genetic, while others may be related to lifestyle, health conditions, or external influences. Here are some common causes of hair loss in men:
1. Male Pattern Baldness (Androgenetic Alopecia):
This is the most common cause of hair loss in men. It is a genetic condition that leads to the gradual shrinking of hair follicles, resulting in thinner and shorter hair until the follicles eventually stop producing hair altogether.
2. Hormonal Imbalances:
Fluctuations in hormones, particularly dihydrotestosterone (DHT), can contribute to hair loss. DHT is a derivative of testosterone and is responsible for shrinking hair follicles in individuals genetically predisposed to male pattern baldness.
3. Stress:
Physical or emotional stress can lead to temporary hair loss. This condition is known as telogen effluvium and occurs when hair follicles enter the resting phase prematurely and shed more than usual.
4. Medical Conditions and Treatments:
Certain medical conditions and their treatments can cause hair loss. Examples include thyroid disorders, alopecia areata (an autoimmune condition), scalp infections, and cancer treatments like chemotherapy.
5. Dietary Deficiencies:
Inadequate intake of essential nutrients like iron, zinc, biotin, and protein can impact hair health and contribute to hair loss.
6. Aging:
As men age, their hair follicles can become less active, leading to thinner and less abundant hair.
7. Excessive Hairstyling:
Frequent use of tight hairstyles, such as ponytails or braids, and excessive use of heat styling tools can damage the hair and lead to breakage and hair loss.
8. Smoking:
Smoking has been associated with an increased risk of hair loss in men.
9. Genetic Predisposition:
Family history plays a significant role in male pattern baldness. If you have a family history of hair loss, you are more likely to experience it as well.
It’s important to note that hair loss can be a natural part of the aging process for many men and might not always indicate an underlying health issue. However, if you are concerned about hair loss or experiencing sudden and severe hair loss, it’s advisable to consult a healthcare professional or a dermatologist to identify the specific cause.
Why are some men not candidates for hair restoration surgery?
Hair transplantation involves the movement of hair from an area of greater density and fullness (usually the back and sides of the scalp) to an area of hair loss in the front, top or crown. Men who lack sufficient hair in a harvest region are not strong candidates for transplantation procedures. Dr. Harris will evaluate the “strength” of the donor by a method called “densitometry” to evaluate your candidacy. You may also want to understand where you are on the Norwood Scale.
If you are considering hair restoration, as in all surgical procedures, it is important to balance the potential gain against the possible risks when making a decision to go forward with the treatment. Schedule a consultation today.
While hair restoration surgery can be an effective and popular solution for many men experiencing hair loss, it may not be suitable for everyone. There are several reasons why some men may not be candidates for hair restoration surgery:
1. Insufficient Donor Hair:
Hair transplantation involves taking healthy hair follicles from a donor area (typically the back or sides of the scalp) and transplanting them to the thinning or balding areas. If a person has limited donor hair due to advanced hair loss or other reasons, there may not be enough hair to transplant effectively.
2. Unstable Hair Loss:
Hair transplant surgery is best suited for individuals with stable hair loss patterns. If a person’s hair loss is still progressing rapidly, the transplanted hair may not match the surrounding areas as the existing hair continues to thin or fall out.
3. Medical Conditions:
Some medical conditions or health issues may complicate or increase the risks associated with surgery. Conditions like certain bleeding disorders, uncontrolled diabetes, or autoimmune diseases may make surgery unsafe.
4. Scalp Conditions:
Certain scalp conditions, such as psoriasis or active scalp infections, can interfere with the healing process after surgery and increase the risk of complications.
5. Expectations:
Unrealistic expectations or desires for a dramatic change in hair density or hairline may not align with the limitations of the procedure or available donor hair.
6. Young Age:
Younger men experiencing hair loss may not be ideal candidates for surgery, especially if their hair loss pattern has not stabilized yet. Hair loss in young men can progress over time, making surgical outcomes less predictable.
It’s essential for individuals considering hair restoration surgery to consult with a qualified and experienced hair restoration specialist or surgeon. A comprehensive evaluation will help determine whether they are suitable candidates for the procedure and whether it aligns with their specific needs and expectations. In some cases, non-surgical options, such as medication or a laser cap may be more appropriate for certain individuals.
